A system for securing a PV module to a ground surface

Abstract

A securing system for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module to a ground surface. The system comprises at least one block and a flexible fastener. The at least one block is arranged between the PV module and the ground surface for transmitting a force from the PV module to the ground surface. The flexible fastener is arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface for resisting movement of the PV module in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface.

Description

[0001] A SYSTEM FOR SECURING A PV MODULE TO A GROUND SURFACE

[0002] Technical Field

[0003]

[0001] The invention generally relates to a system for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module to a ground surface.

[0004] Background

[0005] [2] Anchoring solutions for photovoltaic arrays do exist in the art, however they are not suitable for certain applications, including securing of photovoltaic arrays where substantial resilience to wind is required.

[0006] [3] Examples of prior art systems include mounting setup of additional frame structures, for example on a roof surface, and securing separate ballast mass to the framing structure. Other examples include a framing structure bolted on to large concrete blocks or movable structures that can be filled with sand and are secured directly to the solar panels.

[0007] [4] Anchoring solutions for photovoltaic arrays are also not suitable for applications in locations with uneven ground surfaces and / or that are prone to flooding.

[0008] [5] The discussion of the background to the invention herein is intended to facilitate an understanding of the invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any aspect of the discussion was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0009] Summary

[0010] [6] In accordance with some aspects, the present invention provides a system for securing a beam and a PV module to a ground surface which employs a number of components to provide reliable anchoring for a photovoltaic (PV) system and can be configured to meet the specific requirements of a given solar project, including loads (wind, seismic, snow and other permanent loads), geotechnical requirements of the sites, location of the project (remoteness), scale of the project, and availability of equipment. [7] In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a securing system for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module to a ground surface, the system comprising: at least one block arranged between the PV module and the ground surface for transmitting a force from the PV module to the ground surface; and a flexible fastener arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface for resisting movement of the PV module in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface.

[0011] [8] The system may further comprise a beam connected to the PV module, wherein the at least one block is arranged between the beam and the ground surface. The at least one block may have an upper portion arranged to receive the beam. The upper portion may be a raised portion relative to adjacent side portions, the beam being supported on the raised portion. The flexible fastener may be arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the ground surface using a ground surface attachment. The flexible fastener may be arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the at least one block.

[0012] [9] The system may further comprise a elongate member securable to the beam and arranged between the at least one block and the ground surface. The at least one block may have a lower portion arranged to receive the elongate member. The lower portion may be a concave portion relative to adjacent side portions, within which the elongate member is received. The flexible fastener may be further arranged to secure the at least one block to the elongate member. The flexible fastener may be arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the elongate member. The system may further comprise at least one additional block arranged on the elongate member for increasing a total mass applied to the elongate member. The elongate member may comprise an elongate body.

[0013]

[0010] The system may further comprise at least one securing member disposed along the beam, the at least one securing member comprising at least one hook for connecting the flexible fastener thereto.

[0014]

[0011] The arrangement of the beam relative to the at least one block may define a secured position between the beam and the at least one block, and the flexible fastener may be arranged to allow variability in the secured position between the beam and the at least one block.

[0012] The system may be for securing a plurality of PV modules to the ground surface, and the system may further comprise a plurality of blocks and a plurality of beams connected to the plurality of PV modules, the plurality of blocks being arranged between the plurality of beams and the ground surface, and the plurality of beams being connected to each other in series.

[0015]

[0013] The system may further comprise a support anchored to the ground surface and connected to the beam.

[0016]

[0014] The system may comprise two or more blocks. The flexible fastener may be further arranged to secure the two or more blocks to each other. The two or more blocks may be stacked and interlocked with one another such that the two or more blocks are inhibited from moving laterally or longitudinally relative to one another. The system may comprise two or more stacks of blocks, and the flexible fastener may be further arranged to secure the two or more stacks of blocks to each other.

[0017]

[0015] The at least one block is hollow and has an opening for at least partially filling the at least one block to increase a mass of the at least one block. The at least one block may comprise a lifting point for lifting the at least one block. The lifting point may be an aperture configured to receive a tool for lifting the at least one block. The flexible fastener may not contribute to transmission of the force from the PV module to the ground surface. The flexible fastener may be a cable. The at least one block may separate the PV module from the ground surface.

[0018]

[0016] Advantages of the ground anchoring system disclosed include: a. modulable distance of the PV module from the ground; b. reliable anchoring without requirement for ground penetration; c. restrained or resisted uplift and lateral loads by unitised mass or a ground penetrating anchor and downforce is carried via the blocks bearing on the ground surface.

[0019]

[0017] Other advantages of the system include the preservation of access for people and equipment underneath PV arrays.

[0020]

[0018] The securing system allows for large construction tolerances through the use of the flexible fastener as opposed to rigid fasteners which require precise placement for their application.

[0019] The blocks in the system provide ground bearing, height adjustability, and mass to anchor the system. The elongate member provides a structural member that combines the mass of the blocks and transfers or adds this mass to the PV array.

[0021]

[0020] In some embodiments, uplift and lateral loads are restrained by unitised mass or a ground penetrating anchor and downforce is carried via bearing on the surface of the ground. All elements of the ground anchoring system are generally located underneath the solar array, or when they are located in an accessible part of the array, are designed to be traversable.

[0022]

[0021] In embodiments, the blocks are intentionally standardised to minimise the cost of production. Different block sizes to provide configurability while optimising for cost (material, freight, installation).

[0023] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024]

[0022] In order that the invention may be more fully understood, some embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures in which:

[0025]

[0023] Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a securing system for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module to a ground surface;

[0026]

[0024] Figure 2 shows a side view of the securing system shown in Figure 1 ;

[0027]

[0025] Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a securing system for securing a PV module to a ground surface;

[0028]

[0026] Figure 4 shows a side view of another configuration of the securing system shown in Figure 3;

[0029]

[0027] Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a securing system for securing a PV module to a ground surface;

[0030]

[0028] Figure 6 shows an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a securing system for securing a PV module to a ground surface;

[0031]

[0029] Figure 7 shows a side view of the securing system shown in Figure 6;

[0030] Figure 8 shows an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a securing system for securing a PV module to a ground surface;

[0032]

[0031] Figure 9 shows a side view of the securing system shown in Figure 8;

[0033]

[0032] Figures 10 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a securing system for securing a PV module to a ground surface;

[0034]

[0033] Figure 11 shows a front view of another embodiment of a securing system for securing a plurality of PV modules to the ground surface;

[0035]

[0034] Figures 12a and 12b show a perspective view and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of a stack of blocks of the securing system shown in Figures 1 to 11 ; and

[0036]

[0035] Figure 13 shows a kit comprising a plurality of blocks of the securing system shown in Figures 1 to 11 arranged so that the dimension of the blocks fits a standard pallet size.

[0037] Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

[0038]

[0036] In the drawings, reference numeral 10 generally designates a securing system 10 for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module 12 to a ground surface 14. The system 10 comprises at least one block 20 arranged between the PV module 12 and the ground surface 14 for transmitting a force 22 from the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14. The system 10 further comprises a flexible fastener 24 arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 for resisting movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14.

[0039]

[0037] In some embodiments, the force 22 is a first force 22 that is a substantially downward force. In other embodiments, at least a component of the first force 22 is downward. The ground surface 14 may be any outdoor ground surface such as a dirt surface, gravel surface, grass surface, concrete surface, uneven surface, hard surface, soft surface, and the like.

[0038] The movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14 may arise from a second force 26, such as a lifting force or wind force, that acts on the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14. This may be caused by wind travelling underneath and over the PV module 12 to create an uplift or lifting force, which can displace or cause movement of the PV modules 12. The wind can also cause lateral movement of the PV module 12 across or parallel to the ground surface 14, which is resisted or reduced or prevented by the flexible fastener 24.

[0040]

[0039] The at least one block 20 may be considered a body, a platform, a stand, a foot, a base, a substructure, a supporting member, a support, and the like. The at least one block 20 is suitable for transmitting the first force 22 from the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14. Simultaneously, the at least one block 20 separates the PV module 12 from the ground surface 14. The first force 22 may be a gravity force from a mass of the PV module 12 or a wind force. In some embodiments, the at least one block 20 disperses the first force 22 into the ground surface 14.

[0041]

[0040] The term “flexible fastener” can be defined as a device that is capable of bending easily without breaking, which can join or connect or couple or affix two or more objects together.

[0042]

[0041] In the illustrated embodiments, the flexible fastener 24 is a cable. In other embodiments, the flexible fastener 24 may be considered a wire, a rope, a cord, a line, a tether, a tie, and the like. The flexible fastener 24 may be made from any metal or plastic or fibreglass or other suitable fiber materials that provides flexibility and a sufficient tensile strength to resist movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14, and / or withstand or reduce a magnitude of the second force 26 without breaking or failing.

[0043]

[0042] In some embodiments, the system 10 comprises a beam 28 connected to or carried by the PV module 12 and the at least one block 20 is arranged between the beam 28 and the ground surface 14. In some embodiments, the beam 28 forms a part of the PV module 12. The beam 28 is used to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by connecting or coupling the flexible fastener 24 to the beam 28. The beam 28 defines an opening 23 for at least partially filling the beam 28 to increase a total mass of the beam 28, for example, by filling the beam 28 with concrete. In other embodiments, the flexible fastener 24 is directly connectable or couplable to the PV module 12, for example, to a frame of the PV module 12.

[0044]

[0043] In some embodiments, the PV module 12 comprises a top surface 16 and an opposed bottom surface 18. In some embodiments, the PV module 12 is angled with respect to the ground surface 14. In some embodiments, the system 10 is disposed at or adjacent a corner 25 of the PV module 12, for example, to provide a clear or unobstructed path underneath the PV module 12 for installation and / or maintenance machinery.

[0045]

[0044] Figures 1 and 2 show an embodiment of the securing system 10 in which the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by securing the beam 28 directly to the ground surface 14. The flexible fastener 24 is attached to a ground surface attachment in the form of a ground anchor or pile beneath the ground surface 14 to secure the beam 28 to the ground surface 14. The flexible fastener 24 is tensioned or tautened or tightened using a joining device or cable tensioner 30. The embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 includes a single block 20 that transmits the first force 22 to the ground surface 14. It will be understood that the cable tensioner 30 may be omitted in other embodiments and the flexible fastener 24 may be tied to itself or to another element such as an aperture in the beam 28 or PV module 12 in order to provide the required tension.

[0046]

[0045] The beam 28 defines a pair of apertures 27 and the system 10 further includes a pair of corresponding grommets 29 for insertion into the apertures 27. The flexible fastener 24 passes through the apertures 27 via the grommets 29 to form or define a loop 31 passing through the beam 28, the ground surface 14, and the cable tensioner 30.

[0047]

[0046] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the flexible fastener 24 does not contribute to transmission of the first force 22 from the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14. In other words, the application of the first force 22 to the flexible fastener 24 would only decrease the tension applied to the flexible fastener 24 instead of maintain or increase the tension of the flexible fastener 24 for transmitting the first force 22 to the ground surface 14.

[0048]

[0047] Figures 3 and 4 show another embodiment of the securing system 10 in which the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by securing the beam 28 to the ground surface 14 via a ground anchor 32. The flexible fastener 24 is attached or connected to an eyelet or ring 34 of the ground anchor 32. The ground anchor 32 comprises an anchor body 36 that passes through the ground surface 14 and a supporting member or plate 38 that is disposed on the ground surface 14 and connected to the anchor body 36. The embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5 includes a single block 20 that transmits the first force 22 to the ground surface 14.

[0049]

[0048] The arrangement of the beam 28 relative to the at least one block 20 defines a secured position 33 between the beam 28 and the at least one block 20, and the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to allow variability in the secured position 33 between the beam 28 and the at least one block 20. In other words, the flexible fastener 24 allows for a tolerance in the secured position 33, which does not require a user to place the beam 28 onto the at least one block 20 at a predetermined or exact position. The variability or tolerance may be in a direction parallel or perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 35 of the beam 28, or a combination of both. A similar variability or tolerance in a secured position between the beam 28 and the ground surface is provided by the flexible fastener 24. The variability or tolerance in the secured position 33 is shown in Figure 4, with an angular displacement 37 between a nominal secured position 39 in which the apertures 27 of the beam 28 are directly above or in vertical alignment with the eyelet or ring 34 of the ground anchor 32, and the secured position 33 in which the beam 28 has translated along its longitudinal axis 35.

[0050]

[0049] Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the securing system 10 in which the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by securing the beam 28 to the ground surface 14 via a spiral ground anchor 40. The flexible fastener 24 is attached or connected to an eyelet or ring 42 of the spiral ground anchor 40. The spiral ground anchor 40 comprises a spiral anchor body 44 that passes through the ground surface 14 and a supporting member or plate 46 that is disposed on the ground surface 14 and connected to the spiral anchor body 44. The embodiment shown in Figure 6 includes a single block 20 that transmits the first force 22 to the ground surface 14.

[0051]

[0050] In some embodiments, the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by the flexible fastener 24 securing the beam 28 to the at least one block 20. This may be alternatively or in addition to the flexible fastener 24 being secured directly to the ground surface 14 or to an anchor such as the ground anchor 32 or the spiral ground anchor 40.

[0052]

[0051] Figures 6 and 7 show another embodiment of the securing system 10, which further comprises a elongate member 48 securable to the beam 28 and arranged between the three blocks 20 and the ground surface 14. The elongate member 48 comprises an elongate body 50 and defines a pair of apertures 52 at each end 53, 54 of the elongate member 48 for receiving the flexible fastener 24. It will be understood that two or more blocks 20 may form part of the securing system 10.

[0053]

[0052] The elongate member 48 thereby acts as a locator for placing the blocks 20 in a substantially linear arrangement and also acts as a link or platform or base member or base for the blocks 20 to operatively unitise or accumulate or combine a total mass of the blocks 20 to resist movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14. In some embodiments, the second force 26 causes an increase in tension of the flexible fastener 24 which transmits the second force 26 to the elongate member 48 and in doing so, all blocks 20 that are placed on the elongate member 48 act together to weigh down the elongate member 48 and resist the second force 26.

[0054]

[0053] The system 10 as shown in Figures 6 and 7 further comprises at least one securing member 56 disposed along the beam 28 and comprising at least one hook 58 for connecting the flexible fastener 24 thereto. In the illustrated embodiments, the securing member 56 is U-shaped for receiving the beam 28 and comprises two spaced hooks 58 disposed on either end of the securing member 56. The flexible fastener 24 comprises an eyelet 60 at each end 62, 63 of the flexible fastener 24 for receiving one of the hooks 58 of the securing member 56. In some embodiments, the securing member 56 is omitted such that the flexible fastener 24 is connected or secured to the beam 28 at only one region 64 of the beam 28, as opposed to being connected or secured to the beam 28 at both the region 64 and region 65 of the beam 28 as in Figures 6 and 7.

[0055]

[0054] In Figures 6 and 7, the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 by the flexible fastener 24 securing the beam 28 to the elongate member 48. The flexible fastener 24 passes through the apertures 27 of the beam 28 and the apertures 52 of the elongate member 48, and over the hooks 58 of the securing member 56 to secure the beam 28 to the elongate member 48. In this way, as the second force 26 is applied to the PV module 12, for example, to the bottom surface 18 of the PV module 12, a total mass of the elongate member 48 and the three blocks 20 are resisting movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14 and resisting the second force 26. In some embodiments, the elongate member 48 does not contact or abut the ground surface 14 and is instead secured to the blocks 20 by the flexible fastener 24.

[0056]

[0055] Figures 8 and 9 show another embodiment of the securing system 10, in which the elongate member 48 defines eyelets 66 for receiving the flexible fastener 24. In this embodiment, the flexible fastener 24 passes through the apertures 27 of the beam 28 and the eyelets 66 of the elongate member 48 to secure the beam 28 to the elongate member 48.

[0057]

[0056] In this embodiment, the flexible fastener 24 is further arranged to secure the three blocks 20 to the elongate member 48. The flexible fastener 24 is arranged to pass through the eyelets 66 of the elongate member 48, over the three blocks 20, and through the eyelets 66 at or adjacent the first end 53 of the elongate member 48. The flexible fastener 24 is thereby further arranged to secure the three blocks 20 to each other by preventing or reducing movement of the three blocks 20 along a length of the elongate member 48.

[0058]

[0057] In this embodiment, the securing system 10 further comprises at least one additional block 70, which is illustrated as three additional blocks 70 in Figures 8 and 9, arranged on the elongate member 48 for increasing a total mass applied to the elongate member 48. Similarly to the three blocks 20, the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to pass through the eyelets 66 of the elongate member 48, over the three additional blocks 70, and through the eyelets 66 at or adjacent the second end 54 of the elongate member 48. The flexible fastener 24 is thereby further arranged to secure the three additional blocks 70 to each other by preventing or reducing movement of the three additional blocks 70 along the elongate member 48. Unlike the three blocks 20, the additional blocks 70 do not transmit the first force 22 from the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 and are instead implemented to increase resistance of movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface and / or resistance of the second force 26. Further, the additional blocks 70 may be disposed at an end of the PV array such that a distance of the linear arrangement of the additional blocks 70 does not interfere with or impede or block the path underneath the PV module 12.

[0059]

[0058] The flexible fastener 24 is provided as three separate cables in Figures 8 and 9, however, it will be understood that in other embodiments, the flexible fastener 24 may be provided as a single cable.

[0060]

[0059] Figure 10 shows a similar embodiment of the securing system 10 as are shown in Figures 8 and 9, with the inclusion of two or more additional blocks 70 that are stacked and interlocked with one another such that the two or more additional blocks 70 are inhibited from moving laterally or longitudinally relative to one another. This embodiment includes two or more stacks 74 of the additional blocks 70, wherein the flexible fastener 24 is further arranged to secure the two or more stacks 74 of the additional blocks 70 to each other. In other embodiments, two or more blocks 20 may be stacked and interlocked in the same way beneath the PV module 12, which would further elevate or separate the PV module 12 above or from the ground surface 14.

[0061]

[0060] Figure 11 shows another embodiment of the securing system 10 for securing a plurality of PV modules 12 to the ground surface 14. The system 10 comprises a plurality of blocks 20 and the PV modules 12 form a PV array 13 comprising two rows of PV modules 12. The plurality of PV modules 12 are in an east-west configuration, though other configurations may be applicable in other embodiments. The securing system 10 includes a plurality of beams 28 connected to each other in series, each beam 28 being connected to one of the PV modules 12. The plurality of blocks 20 are arranged between the plurality of beams 28 and the ground surface 14. The connected beams 28 of the same row of PV modules 12 are connected to each other via a first connecting member 98, and the connected beams 28 of adjacent rows of PV modules 12 are connected to each other via a second connecting member 100. In some embodiments, the first and second connecting members 98, 100 are elongate portions and / or wires and / or cables formed from metal or plastic or fibreglass or other suitable fiber materials.

[0062]

[0061] In this embodiment, the placement of the beams 28 are dependent on each other, and therefore the flexible fastener 24 provides a tolerance for variability in the placement of the beams 28 on the blocks 20. In other words, if the blocks 20 and / or ground anchors are preplaced, the location of each beam 28 is dependent on the beam 28 placed on the block 20 before it, and it would be difficult or impossible to align all of the beams 28 on the blocks 20 without the tolerance or variability provided by the flexible fasteners 24 (these are not shown in Figure 11 for clarity). In this way, the beams 28 are interconnected, and the interconnected beams 28 also restrain the beams 28 in a direction perpendicular to the beam 28 to increase the stability of the securing system 10.

[0063]

[0062] A support or pole or turnbuckle 102 is anchored to the ground surface 14 and connected to the beam 28 via a third connecting member 104 on either end 106 of the PV array 13. The turnbuckle 102 provides additional support for the securing system 10, in particular, to resist movement of the PV modules 12 in a direction parallel to the ground surface 14, i.e., lateral movement.

[0064]

[0063] The blocks 20 are shown in more detail in Figures 12a and 12b. The blocks 20 are shown to be formed in three different configurations of different lengths and / or heights, which are stackable together. Each block 20 has an upper portion 76 arranged to receive the beam 28 and a lower portion 78 arranged to receive the elongate member 48. The upper portion 76 is a raised portion relative to adjacent side portions 80, the beam 28 being supported on the raised portion. The lower portion 78 is a concave portion relative to adjacent side portions 81 , within which the elongate member 48 is received. The blocks 20 include a pair of first abutment surfaces 82 and a second abutment surface 84 perpendicular to the first abutment surfaces 82 on a top side 86 of the blocks 20 with corresponding surfaces on a bottom side 88 of the blocks 20 for interlocking the blocks 20 to each other when stacked.

[0065]

[0064] In some embodiments, the blocks 20 are hollow and define an opening 90 for at least partially filling the blocks 20 to increase a mass of the blocks 20. The blocks 20 may be filled with, for example, concrete The at least one block 20 comprises a lifting point for lifting the at least one block 20. In some embodiments, the lifting point is an aperture 92 configured to receive a tool for lifting the at least one block 20. The aperture 92 is defined on the top side 86 of the block 20 and is shaped such that a tool may be received in the aperture in a first orientation and may be rotated while inserted into the aperture 92 to a second orientation to lift the block 20. It is possible to lift a stack 74 of blocks 20 using this method as long as the apertures 92 are substantially aligned. In this way, the aperture 92 acts as a lifting point for the block 20 or the stack 74 of blocks 20.

[0066]

[0065] Figure 13 shows that the blocks 20 can be stacked and packed conveniently to be delivered on a shipping pallet 94 with a filling jig 96.

[0067]

[0066] In use, the elongate member 48 is placed on the ground surface 14 and the blocks 20 are placed on the elongate member 48 in a linear arrangement. The beam 28 attached to the PV module 12 is placed on the blocks 20 in the secured position 33 and is filled with concrete. The securing member 56 is placed or positioned or slid onto the beam 28 and the flexible fastener 24 is arranged to secure the beam 28 to the elongate member 48 in the secured position 33 by passing or feeding the flexible fastener 24 through the apertures 27 of the beam 28, the apertures 52 of the elongate member 48, under the elongate member 48, and onto the hooks 58 of the securing member 56. The flexible fastener 24 is tensioned using the cable tensioner 30 to secure the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14. In other embodiments, the elongate member 48 may be omitted and / or the flexible fastener 24 may be anchored or attached to the ground surface 14 using a ground surface attachment such as a ground anchor.

[0068]

[0067] Advantageously, the securing system 10 both separates the PV module 12 from the ground surface 14 and provides stability by transmitting the first force 22 from the PV module 12 to the ground surface 14 and resisting movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14. In this way, a PV array may be installed in locations with uneven ground due to the transmission of the first force 22, and / or high winds due to resistance of the movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14, and / or high flood risks due to the elevation or separation of the PV module 12 from the ground surface 14.

[0069]

[0068] The securing system 10 is advantageous for large PV array installations on ground surfaces, such as solar farms, which may be in remote locations that are not easily accessible by personnel and therefore the long-term stability or security of the PV modules 12 is paramount to the operation of the PV array. Therefore, the use of securing mechanisms that are designed for commercial or residential rooves does not provide the security required for the PV modules 12 installed on the ground surface 14, since the ground surface 14 may be uneven or prone to shifting or sinking, the installation location can be prone to flooding which requires the PV module 12 to be raised above the ground surface 14, and the installation location may be in a high wind area, which increases risk of detachment when the PV module 12 is raised above the ground surface. In contrast, securing mechanisms that are designed for commercial or residential rooves cannot mitigate uneven surfaces since rooves provide generally stable surfaces, are not designed for raising PV modules at a significant height above the roof surface, and do not provide mechanisms to specifically resist forces applied to the PV module 12, such as the second force 26, for example, a lifting force due to high winds, since the bottom surface 18 of the PV module 12 is not as exposed in roof installations.

[0070]

[0069] The flexible fastener 24 providing a variability or tolerance in the secured position 33 allows for a much faster installation of the securing system 10 compared to the use of a rigid fastener such as a bolt and associated hole or aperture which must be aligned very carefully for accurate installation. This faster installation is compounded for a large PV array which requires the securing system 10 to be installed adjacent every corner 25 of each PV module 12 in the PV array.

[0071]

[0070] The flexible fastener 24 not contributing to transmitting the first force 22 to the ground surface 14 prevents damaging a ground anchor connected to the flexible fastener 24 since some ground anchors can become damaged or fail if the force is transmitted to the ground surface 14 via the ground anchor.

[0072]

[0071] The securing member 56 provides a second attachment point on the beam 28 for attaching the elongate member 48 thereto using the flexible fastener 24. This reduces the prevalence of bending or buckling or shear stresses in the beam 28 and / or the elongate member 48 as the second force 26 is applied, for example, via wind lifting the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14.

[0073]

[0072] The combined mass of the blocks 20 as unified by the elongate member 48 secured to the beam 28 using the flexible fastener 24 provides a large mass in a relatively small region adjacent each corner 25 of the PV module 12. This compact design and installation adjacent each corner 25 of the PV module 12 is advantageous by allowing for installation and maintenance tools to pass freely or unimpeded underneath the PV module while still providing sufficient security and elevation for the PV module 12.

[0074]

[0073] The embodiment of the securing system 10 including the additional blocks 70 is advantageous by providing a means to add a large number of additional blocks 70, and therefore mass, to increase the resistance of movement of the PV module 12 in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface 14 without increasing a distance between the PV module 12 and the ground surface 14 and without adding adjacent blocks 20 underneath the PV module 12, which can impede on installation and maintenance.

[0075]

[0074] The blocks 20 provide ballast while separating the PV module 12 from the ground surface 14. For small to medium PV projects where a custom supply chain is unwarranted, the blocks 20 are provided as a composite plastic concrete solution, where the plastic acts as a mould for the concrete, allowing for complex geometry, while the concrete still provides strength and mass. The complex geometry enables features for interlocking, handling and lifting, and filling. This solution simplifies the concrete filling process by enabling the use of simple equipment. This solution also reduces freight cost, by shipping hollow blocks 20 rather than blocks with large masses to and close by the project site. For very large projects where substantial capital can be invested to reduce part cost, custom extruded masonry blocks components could be used.

[0076]

[0075] In addition to all the advantages described above, the securing system 10 provides the following advantages, amongst others: a solution for producing concrete blocks with very simple equipment close to the project site and seeking to limit the number of unique parts to drive up scale and drive cost down of the moulds; providing a manner to configure a set of blocks to achieve a desired weight, while maintaining a low mass during shipping, which allows for lower freight cost (for at least part of the freight journey); rapid installation with ability to handle large installation tolerances due to the flexible fastener 24; providing an easy solution for height adjustment and independent load adjustment by increasing a height of the stack / s 70 of blocks 20; capability to share load between adjacent elements by implementing the elongate member 48, while allowing for accessibility; direct connection to ballast and anchor; compatible with automated vegetation management solutions; and the flexibility of either keeping the PV module 12 relatively low to the ground surface 14, such as less than 500mm from the ground surface 14, or raising the PV module 12 higher above the ground surface 14.

[0077]

[0076] Where any or all of the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprised" or "comprising" are used in this specification (including the claims) they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not precluding the presence of one or more other features, integers, steps or components.

[0078]

[0077] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claims1 . A securing system for securing a photovoltaic (PV) module to a ground surface, the system comprising: at least one block arranged between the PV module and the ground surface for transmitting a force from the PV module to the ground surface; and a flexible fastener arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface for resisting movement of the PV module in a direction away from or parallel to the ground surface.

2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a beam connected to the PV module, wherein the at least one block is arranged between the beam and the ground surface.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one block has an upper portion arranged to receive the beam.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the upper portion is a raised portion relative to adjacent side portions, the beam being supported on the raised portion.

5. The system of any one of claim 2 to 4, wherein the flexible fastener is arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the ground surface using a ground surface attachment.

6. The system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the flexible fastener is arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the at least one block.

7. The system of any one of claims 2 to 6, further comprising a elongate member securable to the beam and arranged between the at least one block and the ground surface.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one block has a lower portion arranged to receive the elongate member.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the lower portion is a concave portion relative to adjacent side portions, within which the elongate member is received.

10. The system of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the flexible fastener is further arranged to secure the at least one block to the elongate member.11 . The system of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the flexible fastener is arranged to secure the PV module to the ground surface by the flexible fastener securing the beam to the elongate member.

12. The system of claim 11 , further comprising at least one additional block arranged on the elongate member for increasing a total mass applied to the elongate member.

13. The system of any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the elongate member comprises an elongate body.

14. The system of any one of claims 2 to 13, further comprising at least one securing member disposed along the beam, the at least one securing member comprising at least one hook for connecting the flexible fastener thereto.

15. The system of any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the arrangement of the beam relative to the at least one block defines a secured position between the beam and the at least one block, and wherein the flexible fastener is arranged to allow variability in the secured position between the beam and the at least one block.

16. The system of any one of claims 2 to 15 for securing a plurality of PV modules to the ground surface, the system further comprising a plurality of blocks and a plurality of beams connected to the plurality of PV modules, the plurality of blocks being arranged between the plurality of beams and the ground surface, and the plurality of beams being connected to each other in series.

17. The system of any one of claims 2 to 16, further comprising a support anchored to the ground surface and connected to the beam.

18. The system of any one of the preceding claims, comprising two or more blocks.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the flexible fastener is further arranged to secure the two or more blocks to each other.

20. The system of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the two or more blocks are stacked and interlocked with one another such that the two or more blocks are inhibited from moving laterally or longitudinally relative to one another.21 . The system of any one of claims 18 to 20, comprising two or more stacks of blocks, wherein the flexible fastener is further arranged to secure the two or more stacks of blocks to each other.

22. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one block is hollow and defines an opening for at least partially filling the at least one block to increase a mass of the at least one block.

23. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one block comprises a lifting point for lifting the at least one block.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the lifting point is an aperture configured to receive a tool for lifting the at least one block.

25. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible fastener does not contribute to transmission of the force from the PV module to the ground surface.

26. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible fastener is a cable.

27. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one block separates the PV module from the ground surface.

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